Test Kawaski Z1000SX 2014:Much Better?

Even if it has not invaded our streets, the Kawasaki Z1000SX still represents a quarter of motorcycle sales sports-GT (or sport touring) in Europe. Not surprisingly, the Akashi considered a strategic model in its range. After three years of business career without changes, so is today version 2.0 of the Kawasaki Z 1000 SX with all the “gadgets” now essential on a bike of this caliber. Austria is our Spanish colleagues Solo Moto had the opportunity to test this new variation of Tourer 2014. Once is not custom, and unlike our competitors hex is in its free version we now offer a complete test of the Z1000SX. Here are their first impressions.

Kawaski Z1000SX 2014 Bikes Pictures

Z1000SX 2014 Review details

It is difficult nowadays to a large-displacement sport claims to overlook a multimode injection mapping or traction control. So when it came to equipping the Z1000SX, Kawasaki engineers team led by Makoto Momosaki decided to review the bike from top to bottom, almost.
First point that it took refine the model, its engine. Thus, camshafts and intake ducts have been modified to facilitate filling low and medium revs. Incidentally, the maximum power (in the free world) goes from 138 to 142 hp. 10 000 r / min (106 hp. in France), while only 11.15 daN to 7300 rev / min, the couple also growing slightly on the Z1000SX 2014. The exhaust retains its two dual mufflers out, but it is now more compact and lighter.
Regarding the chassis, the suspension settings are reviewed while the rear monoshock sees a knob for adjusting the preload directly accessible on the right side of the motorcycle. The brake calipers Tokico radial-mount are now operated by a master cylinder radial too. The ABS braking is an option.
To improve the lives aboard the Z1000SX, won the saddle 10 mm in thickness and redesigned instrumentation includes an onboard computer. Luggage storage in the Tourer (optional on the base model) is also redesigned: the imposing rear frame of the old version – and frankly quite ugly – is advantageously replaced by invisible supports. These welcome bags “monocle” of 28 liters, painted in the body color and can accommodate a full-face helmet each.

142 horses in the rain … but the traction on the alert

Given the gloomy weather reigning over Austria in the early fall, we welcomed our test Kawasaki Z1000SX is equipped with the optional ABS and traction control KTRC series, as we have before us more 230 km to go on roads as twisty and wet. Henceforth, all deal with these driving conditions with appropriate means …
Good news: Kawasaki Z 1000 SX 2014 has retained his driving position slightly pressing forward without becoming tiresome. Before we launch into the Austrian countryside, we place the KTRC position 3 – the more intrusive, because the asphalt very slippery, but the position will also work two experienced pilots – and note the bubble maximum for shelter showers whenever possible. Incidentally, the operation requires two hands must be made to stop.
Kawasaki Z1000SX 2014 is still not a light bike, but it handles quite easily. And above all, “original”, the engine is a treat. Rather discreet in 3500 rev / min, it grows hell thereafter unabated and almost no vibration after this regime. Full and angry as many of his brothers-end four-cylinder that knows how to sport if that’s what you want.
For the second day of the first press of the Kawasaki Z1000SX test, we had the opportunity to make a loop of 110 km in the dry, and thus tease the beast in a little more relaxed conditions. Capable of beastly acceleration, it clears mobile chicanes on the fourth and fifth. And extended approximately 10% should improve the sixth day of fast track.

Kawaski Z1000SX 2014 Bikes Photos

For travelers to the sporting soul

Side chassis, the set flexible enough suspensions offer every comfort on the roads before us, while sticking the bike to the asphalt. The brakes are another highlight of the new Kawasaki Z1000SX 2014. Even in the wet, their reactions are beyond criticism: you can not keep a finger on the lever, but if you need more power, you will not miss it. The ABS is triggered only when needed, and not before: What ensure powerful deceleration and safe even on wet roads.
The day forward, we are now testing the bubble, adjustable in two positions. The difference is significant, and the high position is significant in this cold and rainy day. However, for long-term travelers, the optional high bubble is recommended, although it will obviously strike the sporty lines of this beautiful bike. Now better padded saddle is a little firm in the long run: do not expect the comfort of a Kawasaki 1400 GTR, once again we are dealing with a sports GT.
The instrumentation now includes an onboard computer. This provides a lot of information: mapping mode, the level of traction, average consumption, instantaneous fuel consumption, eco mode … Finally, the bags are handled easily and are shown perfectly tight, after a full day in the rain.

Conclusion: Best in all, but at what price?

Better equipped than its predecessor, the 2014 Kawasaki Z1000SX improves on almost all points. Fuller (free version), brakeman better, more convenient and as comfortable overall, green sports-GT will ensure a beautiful suite career on the European market.
Remains to be seen what impact the French legislation, on the nature of the big four-cylinder … and at what price this novelty will be displayed in hex concessions. FYI, the Kawasaki Z1000SX Tourer is sold € 14,099 in Spain, 400 € more than the current version. Not excessive considering the evolution undergone by the model …